One of my favorite verses in the Bible is James 1:17, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” I use this verse often when I speak to athletes. James’ words go well with what Paul wrote to the church in Corinth:
“For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?”
(1 Corinthians 4:7)
If Paul were writing to athletes in the 21st century, I think he would say: “Who gave great speed to you?” Who gifted you with your agility and leaping ability?” Who gave you the arm speed and bat speed for throwing and hitting?” Our physical and mental attributes are gifts from God. Should we pound our chest as if we gave them to ourselves, or should we give God thanks for our gifts and honor Him?
Keith Madison
SCORE International
CoachKeithMadison.com
